Durability Assessment of Adhesive Bonds in Vehicles Bodies

This presentation describes a fracture mechanics-based approach for the durability assessment of adhesive (and hybrid) joints in vehicle bodies. The drive to reduce carbon emissions is motivating car and commercial vehicle manufacturers to develop increasingly lightweight vehicle bodies, usually constructed from high strength steels and aluminium alloys. In order to realize the potential strength and durability of such structures, adhesive bonding is commonly used, normally in conjunction with spot welds and self-piercing rivets. The method described here provides a CAE tool for evaluating the durability of adhesive and hybrid joints during the design/development process. This is essential if unnecessary overdesign and un-quantified safety factors are to be avoided.